My first trip to the USA became a moment that changed my life. I was amazed by the scale of the country, the contrast of its cities, and the incredible energy of the people. Since then, I have explored America from coast to coast: driven legendary highways, hiked national parks, and discovered hundreds of places you won't find in typical guides. Today I create personalized USA itineraries so you can experience the real America – vibrant, dynamic, and unforgettable. Let me design a trip that fits you perfectly.
Columbia
Columbia is a vibrant town that offers a mix of cultural activities, natural beauty, and local charm. Home to the University of Missouri, this college town is filled with youthful energy and has something for everyone. While it may not have the same grandeur as New York City or the stunning landscapes of Yosemite, Columbia has its own appeal and a variety of attractions that are worth exploring.
Things to See and Do
Downtown Columbia District
The heart of Columbia is its downtown area, bustling with character. Take a leisurely stroll through the district and you’ll find charming bookstores, souvenir shops, and local restaurants. Don’t miss out on Shakespeare’s Pizza, known for its delicious pies, or Sparky’s Ice Cream, where you can indulge in unique flavors like Oreo’s Speed Wagon with Oreo and coffee. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Columbia makes it a pleasant place to visit.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryHarvest Hoot Nanny
One of the highlights of Columbia’s annual events is the Harvest Hoot Nanny. This festival offers a variety of activities, food stalls, farm animals, and entertainment options for children. Held at the same location as the farmers’ market, it has a special charm. From balloon making to delicious food cooked by local culinary students, and attractions like a mobile dairy unit and livestock displays, the Harvest Hoot Nanny provides a fun-filled experience for the whole family.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
For those who love the outdoors, Columbia won’t disappoint. Stephens Lake Park and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park are perfect for hiking, running, and enjoying the beauty of nature. The MKT Trail is another great option for running or biking, with scenic views throughout the town. Just thirty minutes north of Columbia, you’ll find The Pinnacles, a popular spot for breathtaking hikes and outdoor photography.
Top Attractions
- Shakespeare’s Pizza: An absolute must-visit for pizza lovers, famous for its mouthwatering pies and local vibe.
- Sparky’s Ice Cream: Known for its one-of-a-kind ice cream flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Harvest Hoot Nanny: An annual festival that offers a wide range of activities, food, and entertainment for all ages.
- Stephens Lake Park and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park: Perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of Missouri.
- The Pinnacles: A picturesque location that’s ideal for hiking and capturing stunning photographs.
Dining Options
Columbia is home to a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and great game-day vibes, check out Harpo’s, Campus Bar and Grill, or Shiloh. For a more relaxed dining experience, Flat Branch, Addison’s, and Teller’s are fantastic choices. If you’re in need of a late-night meal, El Rancho is renowned for its drunk eats. And for a hearty breakfast or brunch, Broadway Diner, Ernie’s Cafe, and Cafe Berlin come highly recommended.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Columbia is in the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant for exploring both the town and its outdoor attractions. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially if you’re interested in attending local festivals.
Transportation
Columbia has its own regional airport, making it easy to access the town. Alternatively, you can fly into St. Louis or Kansas City International Airports and drive the rest of the way. If you prefer public transport, buses and trains from nearby cities like Indianapolis or Chicago offer affordable travel options.
Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires. Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation. During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp. Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation. Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.
Accommodation
Columbia offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to more upscale hotels. It is recommended to book in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons or major events.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore District Downtown Columbia, visit bookstores, and enjoy brunch at a local cafe.
- Afternoon: Head to Stephens Lake Park for a relaxing walk or bike ride.
- Evening: Have dinner at Shakespeare’s Pizza and enjoy dessert at Sparky’s Ice Cream.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit the Harvest Hoot Nanny for festival activities and local food.
- Afternoon: Explore Rock Bridge Memorial State Park for outdoor adventure.
- Evening: Enjoy a night out at Roxy’s or The Blue Note for live music.
Day 3:
- Morning: Hike at The Pinnacles for scenic views and photo opportunities.
- Afternoon: Visit local galleries or the Mud Room for a creative activity.
- Evening: Have dinner at El Rancho or Flat Branch and take a final stroll through downtown.
Tips for Tourists
- Check the Weather: Columbia’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly.
- Book in Advance: Secure your accommodations and tickets for events early, especially during peak seasons.
- Explore Local Events: Take advantage of local festivals and events for a more immersive experience.
- Travel Smart: If flying into a nearby city, consider renting a car for convenience.
What we propose Emma Heidi Take all the stress out of planning your trip! With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs. We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey. We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients. Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary. A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide. Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars. We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time. Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go. Want to know if it’s really worth it? Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us. Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection. Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever. How it works
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